I can't wrap my mind around a well versed petrol head, who's making a series on Renaults, and didn't plan to include a 182 Trophy. That doesn't compute. ..but i'm sending thanks to Darren for putting you on the right track. He did good :) I've always loved the 182, but after seeing the video harry did on his i lust after a Trophy. Seems to have all i need in a fun car :)
@ 😄 Way to live up to your username 🙂 Harry Metcalfe is the Harry we speak of. Founder of Evo Magazine, owner of Harry's Garage and Harry's Farm TH-cam channels, and an absolute petrolhead 🙂
If money was no object, then I would definitely own both the Williams and the Trophy. I adore little lightweight Hot Hatch's, they're just honest, simple and most of all, great fun.
I am 45 years old and I love the tribute on little renaults. I am a fan on this era hot hatch. I own a peugeot 306 Gti 6 1999 and before that owned a 106 rally 1.6 16v. Great cars both. Love them. I am waiting for a peugeot tribute now. Great job Jay!!! A Greek fan living in USA.
I remember Harry Metcalfe from Evo saying on a video how during the drivers car of the year event when this came out on narrow, twisty, bumpy B roads it kept up with Lamborghinis and Ferraris, I think Harry still owns one.
I have a 182 too, not cup mind you. Have done a few tweaks to it in the last 2 years of ownership. But all throughout have enjoyed driving it thoroughly...even to the shops and back.
I bought a 182 with the Cup packs the moment they were available to order back in 2004. Best car I’ve ever owned. Best built too, bizarrely. Still can’t fathom that one out 😂
A longer story but the upshot is I bought one of these just over a month ago. What a car. The damping is fantastic and the way it takes off around 5,000 rpm is addictive. I have no problems with the seats but, unlike @jayemm, my frame of reference is somewhat more limited. The steering wheel is another matter but it doesn’t spoil it. It’s extremely sensitive to alignment/tyre pressures but get ‘em right and...This is a car that begs to be driven. It genuinely makes me chuckle sometimes. I love it.
Not quite a trophy but i have a "full fat" 182 that i have daily driven for 7 years now. As fairly young enthusiast, this car is everything i could ever ask for. As for pounds per fun value, surely nothing currently beats these clio 172/182's.
I remember owning one of these 10y ago and loved driving it. Replaced by a mk1 focus rs but it was still impressive for its day. Now days it's not faster than a golf gtd lol but still a genuinely fun car to drive
Just smashed through all 4 of your renault series and loved it mate! Can’t wait to watch the video on the mk2 astra tomorrow aswell but its bed time for me now as i set out to watch one video and ended up watching the four of them 😂
I owned a 172 sounded lovely with a custom exhaust and filter on it I had it for 10 years best car I’ve owned would deffo have another. Still my fav hot hatch I run a civic Type R fn2 now but still love these 😍
I borrowed one for two weeks a few years back. The stiff ride was shock and it's thirst for fuel. What never got old was the sound When it was in Vtec. I've always wanted a Championship edition or a Mugen since.
Guys That Drive tidy cup’s have risen in value recently. Agree that they’re great cars though and slightly lighter than the Trophy etc. due to the windows. No ABS either.
Guys That Drive exactly you can have 9/10s of the fun of 182 trophy in 172 cup or a 182 with some different suspension modifications. Obviously it’s not withstanding the collector aspect here but for the driving pleasure it’s definitely up there. Plus you could spec a 182 with those seats and similar wheels though they are hard to find
gandi69 very true. You’d also feel less guilty modifying a non Trophy car. Mines standard apart from the Scorpion RS192 exhaust. Had the Sachs dampers serviced recently which is another cost associated with keeping the car tip top that isn’t an issue on the others.
@Az Lean age doesn't care if it's kept outside,inside or on the moon,tires/rubber and virtually everything else deteriorates regardless,in some cases more than others,the M.O.T tester only visually inspects the tire,they don't check the tire structure for integrity.
@@grahamsmith2022 Whilst I wouldn't fancy 15 year old tyres myself. The most significant factor in aging of tyres if from UV damage from the sun. So being kept indoors would help with aging a great deal.
I tried one once. I didn't have any money to spare at the time otherwise I would have bought it on the spot. Loved it, Loved it, Loved it! I've emigrated now so can't have one here. Bum, Bum, Bum!
That was a worthy inclusion so I'm glad this got into the mix. There is only one problem...... I have a feeling that the prices will probably go up once people watch this vid!!
High miles one will set you back £5000 A medium miles one 60-80k will be £8000 To get a mint one with 20-30000 miles might set you back £12000-£15000 An ultra low miles pristine one £20000-£22000 They are great little cars I had a heavily modded 182 full fat with those recaro seats in and all sorts done to it It was simply fantastic fun As good as it gets really I should never have sold it
Now I love my sport megane! Been in the garage for over a week getting a new lsd box checked over and a lightened flywheel and beefier clutch in. Cant wait to get it back and go for a blast as the Volvo v70 d5 I have been driving in the meantime isn’t quite hitting the fun factor fir me 😂. Would love one of these Clio’s but gonna have to go RWD next.
I was just about to write the same but the description says he was testing a quartet of Renaults so fingers crossed he tests it as the 306 Rallye is a fantastic car.
Jay, reviewing all of my favourite frechies! These fetch for still a pretty couple of pennies. I would get a regular 182 for 1500-3k then spend the rest of the money saved on a nice set of coilovers and still be far ahead.
iv been looking for a nice one of these for sometime now too i have the awsome megane r26r and that is also a mental capable car ya need too review one jay
The quickest of all the 172/182 variants is the lightweight 172 cup. The Clio Williams is a full second slower from 0-60 compared to a 182 Trophy but the magic in the Trophy is the trick and very expensive sachs dampers, just having them rebuilt and serviced will set you back £1000.
I had a RS182 in liquid yellow back in the day, bought it brand new and it was in the garage from the day one. Faulty shock absorbers, hydraulic steering rack needed to be replaced, lambda sensor left me on the road, faux leather on the steering wheel chipping... Weird seating position and huge steering wheel didn't work for me and I sold it with a 25,000km and never looked back. I couldn't afford Honda Civic Type R, it was 7000€ more but a whole different ball game than Clio.
Wow, you could almost get the fantastic Fiesta ST for that much... But the Clio is much more special obviously, and not far behind in other areas either
@@tommymician121 Test drove a fiesta ST recently, and it seemed very dull in comparison to my 182. Is the ST's Electric power steering a problem? The ST is a 1.6(albeit turbo) compared to the 2 litre Clio lump, which is so responsive low down, great for those b roads, and the ST ride seemed less compliant. ST better built absolutely...but more fun? More fun than a Clio Trophy?
Being of that sort of age and inclination (and relatively limited budget) I've driven most of the hot hatches of that sort of period. I thought the 182 trophy was much the most engaging - my all time favourite hot hatch. My wife thought the ride in the back was awful so I didn't finish up buying one. On the other hand the - much vaunted at the time - Williams didn't set my world alight and I thought my 309GTi a much sharper tool despite what the press might have said at the time. Harry (and others) do however warn that the Trophy's secret weapon - the dampers - are expensive to maintain.
Trophy is a better daily. DC2 there's not much go till about 6k rpm. I've owned both as standard and subtly modified both (intake/exhaust/remap/bushes/brakes/rear seat delete etc) The DC2 is (obviously) better built so is more reliable maintenance and rattle wise. The factory LSD makes a big difference and the gearshift is much better/accurate/more precise (rifle bolt action) in the DC2. DC2 is better/quicker on track in standard and modified form. Trophy's Sachs dampers are truly fantastic (when they aren't needing a refurb) the turn in / handling are fantastic! It will wash wide (understeer) on track with the open diff, but on the road it's more accessible fun than the DC2. Steering feel is very good on the 182, the steering wheel position and seating position aren't ideal though (you can fit Jon Foz lowering seat brackets and fit a suitably dished steering wheel) I imagine a Trophy with an LSD and the Brembos from the 197/200/Meg would be fantastic! Both are very expensive cars now, circa £20k for lower mileage decent examples (Nov 2022) Both are excellent. An RS Clio is still tempting as a daily, but the frequent maintenance required and image (boy racer) hold me back from buying another. The DC2 was truly special but is quite a niche car, with others being better as a daily or as a track car, plus the price they now command. If size isn't an issue then I'd recommend considering an FD2 or FK8 🏆
Harry got one. And kept it. Then gave it to his son. You want more? Read the Evo article in which a Trophy stuck to an M6 on some mountain roads (except on the straights of course). EVO Magazine Issue 83 September 2005
Loved my 53 04 Clio 182, only 2 cars I've ever had that sort of upset me when I sold them , my 182 wasn't 1 of them but it's the only car I wish I'd never sold.
The French have always made good small cheap light cars. Have you driven a 205 1.9? if not i would love to hear your opinion as i haven't driven one in over 15 years.
English Nature I’ve got a 1.9 and a Trophy. The general feel is similar but the Clio is sharper and quite a bit faster. Also drove my friends Williams recently which kinda felt like the missing link. All darty little things.
wish you could have reviewed a 197 as well I had one for a few years was very fun and actually pretty reliable apart from needing a few bits here are there that were due to hard cornering XD
You do realise that he can't just make cars magically appear out of nowhere to review, Right? Do you know anyone who owns one and who would offer it up for review?? if you do why not speak to them and ask them to contact James.... Shouting all in CAPS doesn't make a car suddenly available for review, just makes you look a little childish.
I rarely comment on TH-cam but this is a good one. There is a little old dear in Leeds who owns one of these and drives it daily, but now that I am typing this I realise I haven't seen her around in it in a *very* long time, I hope she's ok, it always makes me chuckle, wonder if she knows what she has/had?
Because i own a small collection of drivers cars and buy/sell around two cars per year your videos are of real value to me. I wanted to become a member but that doesn't work somehow and so i want to send a one-time donation towards your way. Is there any way to donate you directly? Cheers
Just buy a standard 182 and upgrade the suspension, simple and accessible. BTW there are other differences, the standard comes with climate control and plush leather half buckets. Yes I still own a 182, it's cheaply made out of mostly the type of plastic found in boxes of chocolates but it's the last great naturally aspirated hot super mini and in my view the best one. Grab one while they're cheap before the teens stick 'em ditches or blow the con rods through the block.
I just don't understand having old tyres because they are original. It is not that hard to swap them and have them if you really want to have the original tyres and have piece of mind while driving
@@projectnorahlyne1018 That's just dangerous. I had an EP3 that I supercharged to 340bhp. Spent thousands on it. Lovely car. Just remember that your only contact with the road is your tyres. 70% of your braking is your tyres. Especially if it's a performance car. How have the front tyres lasted you 16 years? I can only assume gears 2-6 don't work. Or you're a troll.
@@jimmyfarley5581 sorry pressed wrong button lol. So it goes to a show once a year, then for mot & service. It only done 8k. But I will take your advise & get them changed 🤩🤩
Sitting having a coffee and this popped up. Clicked to view, only been up 20 seconds or so, no comments had been posted and already had a downvote. There are strange people about. Down voting in 20 seconds of an upload? Peugeot fanboys?
I think there are a lot of 'bots' about on TH-cam. I always see loads of random comments that you can tell aren't from real people. Maybe there are down vote programmes also.
I'm definitely a Pug fanboy and if this really is the French finale (meaning no 306 Rallye) then I'm very disappointed...but this video still gets a like, it's a brilliant 90s hot hatch, what kind of terrible person dislikes this?
I sold the one i'd had from new in March 21 with only 83k on it, i'm already looking for another one, biggest mistake ever selling it. To be honest i'd buy the car in this video without even thinking about it
It just goes to show how power to weight works. And why people laughing at how little power older cars had 'back then' compared to today is silly. The Monteago Turbo had significantly less BHP, but was over a second faster to 60 and would beat this in all mid range acceleration statistics hands down. The Maestro Turbo even more so. They are only two examples, I know.
The Trophy is a great car but they cost upto 4x as much as a Full fat, and they're not THAT much better, so no, on a budget it's a pretty terrible choice imo, good investment though. Loving all the Renault reviews though!
I own a Trophy (and a Williams)...paid 5k for my Trophy and have to agree. The difference between any 172, 182, full fat, Cup or Trophy is too small to warrant a big difference. Actually for me, the 172 cup is the best drivers car. I love my Trophy and I like that the residuals are strong, although I will provably never sell it, but with 182's I would buy on condition rather than spec.
@@mrc7966 hello there! For me the best hot hatch I've ever driven is the Clio Williams so very jel that you have one. I've driven many a 172 but not cup or trophy. Weren't a patch on the Williams for me. Do you rate the 172 cup more than your Williams?
I'm not James but honestly in terms of handling these Clios (even 172/182 standard) are so far above. I've had an ST150, ST180, a 986 Boxster S and my Ph1 172 is the best handling/most fun car of them all.
@@ett_baer I've also had a Boxster S and found that car to have a very awkward driving position and little to no steering feel which is completely opposite to what reviews said, but I suppose handling is subjective. I personally think the ST180 is massively underrated and one of the best hatchbacks I've driven. I need to get myself in a Trophy, but good ones a going for silly money at the moment.
@@jimmyjt16 Handling is objective, it sound stupid but roundabout top speed is a really easy test, because power doesn't come into the equation on a roundabout. (One of the main tests of a reputable geo setup company (center gravity) is a roundabout test!) I can't agree about the Boxster, something may have been off with the power steering in yours, I could feel every tiny little change in the road through my steering wheel, and the steering had very little assist, felt unpowered at a standstill. I found the ST180 the worst in terms of handling of the three of the above, but still a good chassis and good fun to drive. Don't go for a trophy! They are silly money and not worth the price hike over the others. A 172 or 182 with *NEW* 172/182 cup dampers and cooksport springs will put you on par with a trophy handling wise, I've driven both. The phase 1 172 is 60(!!)kg lighter than the 182 trophy, with the springs and shocks I mentioned and some camber bolts you will essentially have a car that's better handling than the trophy. I'm biased but I highly recommend the phase 1 over the later 172/182's if you can find one without rust, they come with way lighter (by almost 3kg a corner) alloys, and the cable throttle is a dream for response too.
How funny, I hated my Renaultsport megane too! Amazed after all the hype. Worst car i've owned (275 Megane RS Trophy with the Ohlins and akrapovik). Would be interested in your thoughts as to why.
I can't wrap my mind around a well versed petrol head, who's making a series on Renaults, and didn't plan to include a 182 Trophy. That doesn't compute. ..but i'm sending thanks to Darren for putting you on the right track. He did good :) I've always loved the 182, but after seeing the video harry did on his i lust after a Trophy. Seems to have all i need in a fun car :)
You know if Harry has one then it's good.
@@BM_PAZ Yup!
Trust me, it is.
who's harry? harry your a wizard,,.. you're a wizard harry
@ 😄 Way to live up to your username 🙂 Harry Metcalfe is the Harry we speak of. Founder of Evo Magazine, owner of Harry's Garage and Harry's Farm TH-cam channels, and an absolute petrolhead 🙂
why on earth would you keep original tyres on such a good example of a driver's car? WHY??
If money was no object, then I would definitely own both the Williams and the Trophy. I adore little lightweight Hot Hatch's, they're just honest, simple and most of all, great fun.
You could just buy a 182 and whack some coilovers and Speedline Turinis on it for a fraction of the cost of a Trophy...
I am 45 years old and I love the tribute on little renaults. I am a fan on this era hot hatch. I own a peugeot 306 Gti 6 1999 and before that owned a 106 rally 1.6 16v. Great cars both. Love them. I am waiting for a peugeot tribute now. Great job Jay!!! A Greek fan living in USA.
Thanks fella!
Man the roads there are absolutely PERFECT and what an amazing car...
I remember Harry Metcalfe from Evo saying on a video how during the drivers car of the year event when this came out on narrow, twisty, bumpy B roads it kept up with Lamborghinis and Ferraris, I think Harry still owns one.
Lamborghini couldn’t keep up on that test. Owned mine since nearly new; cracking car.
He bought the press car that was featured in Evo.
His video is why I appreciate this car so much, I believe his son owns it now but i'm sure they'll always keep it in the family
Still got the article with my Clio Trophy file. They were halcyon days for the car 🥰
Harry did a video on it last year?
The best hot hatch ever made - period. Absolutely loved mine.
Me too. Then came along my kids a ruined driving fun
I miss mine so so much 😭
These cars are excellent, regardless of trophy spec or just 182 standard. They just feel so alive and eager, it makes you laugh and feel happy
For 10 years now I have been driving and gurning, people coming the other way must think it's odd but it's just me Clio182.
Great cars. I had a standard 182 from brand new and did 120k trouble free miles in it before I sold it 3 yrs later. Loved every mile I did in it!
I daily a 182 with the cup packs, love driving it.
I have a 182 too, not cup mind you. Have done a few tweaks to it in the last 2 years of ownership. But all throughout have enjoyed driving it thoroughly...even to the shops and back.
so do i, RB with trendlines at now 94k miles .. had it for 10 years, can't replace, it can't fault it.
@@vector409 I've had mine 4 years, just hit 95k.
@@stacymitchell6453 keep it.. you will find nothing to replace it and it will not lose you any money apart from servicing :)
@@stacymitchell6453
Had mine 10 years she's at 42.5K, I really should get round to changing the cam belt some day.
I bought a 182 with the Cup packs the moment they were available to order back in 2004. Best car I’ve ever owned. Best built too, bizarrely. Still can’t fathom that one out 😂
A longer story but the upshot is I bought one of these just over a month ago. What a car. The damping is fantastic and the way it takes off around 5,000 rpm is addictive. I have no problems with the seats but, unlike @jayemm, my frame of reference is somewhat more limited. The steering wheel is another matter but it doesn’t spoil it. It’s extremely sensitive to alignment/tyre pressures but get ‘em right and...This is a car that begs to be driven. It genuinely makes me chuckle sometimes. I love it.
Great cars👍
JayEmm.... I'm glad you indulged Darren's request. Lovely car, great vid as always thank, thank you.
Not quite a trophy but i have a "full fat" 182 that i have daily driven for 7 years now. As fairly young enthusiast, this car is everything i could ever ask for. As for pounds per fun value, surely nothing currently beats these clio 172/182's.
I think that's the best exhaust note I've ever heard, from a hot hatch at least. I want one!
Love a 182, still regret not buying a cracking example in a Gordini blue a while back. The Trophy is the best version.
I remember owning one of these 10y ago and loved driving it. Replaced by a mk1 focus rs but it was still impressive for its day. Now days it's not faster than a golf gtd lol but still a genuinely fun car to drive
Just smashed through all 4 of your renault series and loved it mate! Can’t wait to watch the video on the mk2 astra tomorrow aswell but its bed time for me now as i set out to watch one video and ended up watching the four of them 😂
Thanks for binging :)
JayEmm on Cars no problem mate! Always a pleasure👍
What a great car. Took it up Prescott, it was really at home there.
Man, that color does compliment the design rather smartly!
I owned a 172 sounded lovely with a custom exhaust and filter on it I had it for 10 years best car I’ve owned would deffo have another. Still my fav hot hatch I run a civic Type R fn2 now but still love these 😍
I borrowed one for two weeks a few years back. The stiff ride was shock and it's thirst for fuel. What never got old was the sound When it was in Vtec. I've always wanted a Championship edition or a Mugen since.
172 Cup is the sweet spot for value, driving enjoyment and rarity. Massively overlooked by most
Guys That Drive tidy cup’s have risen in value recently. Agree that they’re great cars though and slightly lighter than the Trophy etc. due to the windows. No ABS either.
Phil Wile no AC either. yes tidy ones have gone up in value but still considerably cheaper than trophies
Guys That Drive exactly you can have 9/10s of the fun of 182 trophy in 172 cup or a 182 with some different suspension modifications. Obviously it’s not withstanding the collector aspect here but for the driving pleasure it’s definitely up there.
Plus you could spec a 182 with those seats and similar wheels though they are hard to find
gandi69 very true. You’d also feel less guilty modifying a non Trophy car. Mines standard apart from the Scorpion RS192 exhaust. Had the Sachs dampers serviced recently which is another cost associated with keeping the car tip top that isn’t an issue on the others.
Need to pull my phase 2 172 out the garage and give it some love. Absolutely hate the interior but love driving it.
Hammering around corners with 15 year old tyres would not have been a good idea.
@Az Lean age doesn't care if it's kept outside,inside or on the moon,tires/rubber and virtually everything else deteriorates regardless,in some cases more than others,the M.O.T tester only visually inspects the tire,they don't check the tire structure for integrity.
@@grahamsmith2022 Whilst I wouldn't fancy 15 year old tyres myself. The most significant factor in aging of tyres if from UV damage from the sun. So being kept indoors would help with aging a great deal.
till it smells like rubber its ok , if it aint got any smell then i start to be worried :D
To be honest the way those things go around corners he was nowhere near it's limit, that was fairly tame
I tried one once. I didn't have any money to spare at the time otherwise I would have bought it on the spot. Loved it, Loved it, Loved it! I've emigrated now so can't have one here. Bum, Bum, Bum!
Jay your friend has a varied selection of modern classics
That was a worthy inclusion so I'm glad this got into the mix.
There is only one problem...... I have a feeling that the prices will probably go up once people watch this vid!!
I hope so 😂😂
I have a big place in my hearts for French hot hatches even though I grew up with a Golf 1 GLI. As my first car I imagine a Renault Clio IV.
The seats are actually very good and very comfortable.
Love that road in Herefordshire
High miles one will set you back £5000
A medium miles one 60-80k will be £8000
To get a mint one with 20-30000 miles might set you back £12000-£15000
An ultra low miles pristine one £20000-£22000
They are great little cars
I had a heavily modded 182 full fat with those recaro seats in and all sorts done to it
It was simply fantastic fun
As good as it gets really
I should never have sold it
Now I love my sport megane! Been in the garage for over a week getting a new lsd box checked over and a lightened flywheel and beefier clutch in. Cant wait to get it back and go for a blast as the Volvo v70 d5 I have been driving in the meantime isn’t quite hitting the fun factor fir me 😂. Would love one of these Clio’s but gonna have to go RWD next.
Brilliant little gem had one really loved driving it so much fun
One the best hothatchs ever built
Loves the sound of his voice!
I had a 182 cup for 3 1/2 yrs paid 12.5 k new .Did Highland roads hundreds of times .Best bang for buck ever .
everyday i walk past a house and they have one, what a car!!
You’re on a roll. Great videos!
Wait...this is the finale of the French cars? Does that mean no 306 Rallye!?! But...that's the best one!
Even worse, no Bib’s 106 diesel?!
I was just about to write the same but the description says he was testing a quartet of Renaults so fingers crossed he tests it as the 306 Rallye is a fantastic car.
Ive seen lots of your content and "comments" on retro seats. My question would be how can you comment on such being the shape you are??
❤️❤️ viva la France, I have a 172 cup that’s not going anywhere
Broken down? 😂
Or do you mean you're hanging on to it?
Gareth Wynn 😂😂 hanging onto it, also it can’t break down if it doesn’t go anywhere 😂
Jay, reviewing all of my favourite frechies! These fetch for still a pretty couple of pennies. I would get a regular 182 for 1500-3k then spend the rest of the money saved on a nice set of coilovers and still be far ahead.
100%, and its exactly what I did
iv been looking for a nice one of these for sometime now too i have the awsome megane r26r and that is also a mental capable car ya need too review one jay
If you ever want to take a 172 cup out let me know - enjoyed this video!
Really really want a Trophy!
I have a clio 172 cup and have owned two 182s
The quickest of all the 172/182 variants is the lightweight 172 cup. The Clio Williams is a full second slower from 0-60 compared to a 182 Trophy but the magic in the Trophy is the trick and very expensive sachs dampers, just having them rebuilt and serviced will set you back £1000.
I had a RS182 in liquid yellow back in the day, bought it brand new and it was in the garage from the day one. Faulty shock absorbers, hydraulic steering rack needed to be replaced, lambda sensor left me on the road, faux leather on the steering wheel chipping... Weird seating position and huge steering wheel didn't work for me and I sold it with a 25,000km and never looked back. I couldn't afford Honda Civic Type R, it was 7000€ more but a whole different ball game than Clio.
My mate just sold his two days ago, 120k miles for £6k. They still fetch a good amount
Wow, you could almost get the fantastic Fiesta ST for that much... But the Clio is much more special obviously, and not far behind in other areas either
That's buttons mate.
@@tommymician121 Test drove a fiesta ST recently, and it seemed very dull in comparison to my 182. Is the ST's Electric power steering a problem? The ST is a 1.6(albeit turbo) compared to the 2 litre Clio lump, which is so responsive low down, great for those b roads, and the ST ride seemed less compliant. ST better built absolutely...but more fun? More fun than a Clio Trophy?
Being of that sort of age and inclination (and relatively limited budget) I've driven most of the hot hatches of that sort of period. I thought the 182 trophy was much the most engaging - my all time favourite hot hatch. My wife thought the ride in the back was awful so I didn't finish up buying one. On the other hand the - much vaunted at the time - Williams didn't set my world alight and I thought my 309GTi a much sharper tool despite what the press might have said at the time. Harry (and others) do however warn that the Trophy's secret weapon - the dampers - are expensive to maintain.
Must admit, I was not blown away by the WIlliams, either.
I would be interested in hearing your thoughts on the Integra Type R (DC2) and how it compares to the 182 Trophy.
The DC2 beat the Trophy in the EVO mag "fwd drivers car" test way back when. Both great examples of how to do fun fwd.
DC2 is widely lauded as the absolute best FWD ever made.
Trophy is a better daily. DC2 there's not much go till about 6k rpm.
I've owned both as standard and subtly modified both (intake/exhaust/remap/bushes/brakes/rear seat delete etc)
The DC2 is (obviously) better built so is more reliable maintenance and rattle wise.
The factory LSD makes a big difference and the gearshift is much better/accurate/more precise (rifle bolt action) in the DC2.
DC2 is better/quicker on track in standard and modified form.
Trophy's Sachs dampers are truly fantastic (when they aren't needing a refurb) the turn in / handling are fantastic! It will wash wide (understeer) on track with the open diff, but on the road it's more accessible fun than the DC2.
Steering feel is very good on the 182, the steering wheel position and seating position aren't ideal though (you can fit Jon Foz lowering seat brackets and fit a suitably dished steering wheel)
I imagine a Trophy with an LSD and the Brembos from the 197/200/Meg would be fantastic!
Both are very expensive cars now, circa £20k for lower mileage decent examples (Nov 2022)
Both are excellent. An RS Clio is still tempting as a daily, but the frequent maintenance required and image (boy racer) hold me back from buying another.
The DC2 was truly special but is quite a niche car, with others being better as a daily or as a track car, plus the price they now command.
If size isn't an issue then I'd recommend considering an FD2 or FK8 🏆
Harry got one. And kept it. Then gave it to his son. You want more? Read the Evo article in which a Trophy stuck to an M6 on some mountain roads (except on the straights of course).
EVO Magazine
Issue 83 September 2005
BTW, I owned a 172 Cup for 2 years then a 182 Cup for 8. Fantastic cars.
Fantastic cars
Loved my 53 04 Clio 182, only 2 cars I've ever had that sort of upset me when I sold them , my 182 wasn't 1 of them but it's the only car I wish I'd never sold.
Brilliant car 👍🏻
The French have always made good small cheap light cars. Have you driven a 205 1.9? if not i would love to hear your opinion as i haven't driven one in over 15 years.
English Nature I’ve got a 1.9 and a Trophy. The general feel is similar but the Clio is sharper and quite a bit faster. Also drove my friends Williams recently which kinda felt like the missing link. All darty little things.
My car is also a 2005 Renault Clio... And that's where the similarities stop 😂
I had the RS200 cup.I have to say the better car .Better handling and looks.Please do that one
Have you owned both cars?
@@s_s_s_cars no bit my friend had a 182 and it was fantastic but I preferred the set up of the rs200 Clio.Also looked better.
Can you get a nice 80s xr3i to review
Great car, have you ever done a feature on an R26.R ?
Looking forward to another great video
I had a silver one... Regret having sold it... Fun car to drive...
You weren’t going review the Trophy..?! Glad that didn’t happen, interesting review
The standard 182 is perfect 🏴
A standard 182 is a fantastic car but the Trophy is even better.
No 👍🏴
Have you driven both??👍
No 😃
Have u
How as the clutch we had one of these in a few months back loved the firm feel of the clutch and pressure plate was beautiful !
Having done many miles in London traffic with my 172 i beg to disagree. 😉
Great video, nice Clio
wish you could have reviewed a 197 as well I had one for a few years was very fun and actually pretty reliable apart from needing a few bits here are there that were due to hard cornering XD
It's a nice looking car!
I can’t believe it’s still got the original exhaust mine fell in half after 5 years.
I owned the 172, great engine and fun to drive, agree the interiors are nasty
PLEASE REVIEW A HONDA CIVIC JORDAN!!
MY 15TH TIME ASKING.
AND I SHAN'T STOP UNTIL I SEE THE BRIGHT YELLOW INSANE VTEC BEAUTY ON HERE!!
You do realise that he can't just make cars magically appear out of nowhere to review, Right?
Do you know anyone who owns one and who would offer it up for review?? if you do why not speak to them and ask them to contact James....
Shouting all in CAPS doesn't make a car suddenly available for review, just makes you look a little childish.
No, people do not realise this
I rarely comment on TH-cam but this is a good one.
There is a little old dear in Leeds who owns one of these and drives it daily, but now that I am typing this I realise I haven't seen her around in it in a *very* long time, I hope she's ok, it always makes me chuckle, wonder if she knows what she has/had?
The Jordan wasn’t anything special, it had half a Type R bodykit and a VTi-S engine
Because i own a small collection of drivers cars and buy/sell around two cars per year your videos are of real value to me. I wanted to become a member but that doesn't work somehow and so i want to send a one-time donation towards your way. Is there any way to donate you directly? Cheers
Wheels are different offset and trophy specific as lighter too
Just buy a standard 182 and upgrade the suspension, simple and accessible. BTW there are other differences, the standard comes with climate control and plush leather half buckets. Yes I still own a 182, it's cheaply made out of mostly the type of plastic found in boxes of chocolates but it's the last great naturally aspirated hot super mini and in my view the best one. Grab one while they're cheap before the teens stick 'em ditches or blow the con rods through the block.
My grail mid 2000’s car.
I got a clio as a first car, noticed it could go very well on turns, now i cant run away from owning clios 😭😭😭 got a clio 2 and a clio 3
I just don't understand having old tyres because they are original. It is not that hard to swap them and have them if you really want to have the original tyres and have piece of mind while driving
I know that road well, drove up and down in many times in my first car a mk3 fiesta
harrys clio
Ah yes. Didn’t he buy the press car, the one he featured in the mag?
I think he did
I think his son owns it now.
JayEmm on Cars He did.
The only place I'd be demonstrating that car is to the tyre bay to get the rears changed.
You gunna do the pug GT I’s mate :)
Do enjoy these got hatches, older ones seem so much more appreciative than new ones , 205 gti or astra gte next?
I guess my wish was your command 😂😂😂, p.s loving the reviews 👍
Lovely car. Wouldn't want 15 year old tyres on the rear though
The rears were newer
I have 4, 16 year old tyres on my Ep3. 🤩🤩
@@projectnorahlyne1018 That's just dangerous. I had an EP3 that I supercharged to 340bhp. Spent thousands on it. Lovely car. Just remember that your only contact with the road is your tyres. 70% of your braking is your tyres. Especially if it's a performance car. How have the front tyres lasted you 16 years? I can only assume gears 2-6 don't work.
Or you're a troll.
@@jimmyfarley5581 troll lol. No bud, the car is hardly driven to be honest & if it is driven, it not driven hard. Goes to a local show once a
@@jimmyfarley5581 sorry pressed wrong button lol. So it goes to a show once a year, then for mot & service. It only done 8k. But I will take your advise & get them changed 🤩🤩
Sitting having a coffee and this popped up. Clicked to view, only been up 20 seconds or so, no comments had been posted and already had a downvote. There are strange people about. Down voting in 20 seconds of an upload? Peugeot fanboys?
Even If I despised the car that was being reviewed, I still wouldn't give it a thumbs down.
I think there are a lot of 'bots' about on TH-cam. I always see loads of random comments that you can tell aren't from real people. Maybe there are down vote programmes also.
PT82, sabotage from rival TH-camrs? Doug getting worried? (Just a joke before Doug fans pounce on me!).
I’ve got one of these and a 205GTi. No thumbs down from me.
I'm definitely a Pug fanboy and if this really is the French finale (meaning no 306 Rallye) then I'm very disappointed...but this video still gets a like, it's a brilliant 90s hot hatch, what kind of terrible person dislikes this?
I sold the one i'd had from new in March 21 with only 83k on it, i'm already looking for another one, biggest mistake ever selling it. To be honest i'd buy the car in this video without even thinking about it
You just need to drive a nice standard DC2 now JayEmm. That will top the lot :)
Loving the videos mate! Any chance of an ax gt, Leon fr or Leon cupra please??
I've got a massive soft spot for these and I normally hate hatchbacks!
It just goes to show how power to weight works. And why people laughing at how little power older cars had 'back then' compared to today is silly. The Monteago Turbo had significantly less BHP, but was over a second faster to 60 and would beat this in all mid range acceleration statistics hands down. The Maestro Turbo even more so. They are only two examples, I know.
This or ep3 type r?
A shortened gearbox ratio and it causes nightmares even to more powerful cars.
The Trophy is a great car but they cost upto 4x as much as a Full fat, and they're not THAT much better, so no, on a budget it's a pretty terrible choice imo, good investment though.
Loving all the Renault reviews though!
I own a Trophy (and a Williams)...paid 5k for my Trophy and have to agree. The difference between any 172, 182, full fat, Cup or Trophy is too small to warrant a big difference. Actually for me, the 172 cup is the best drivers car. I love my Trophy and I like that the residuals are strong, although I will provably never sell it, but with 182's I would buy on condition rather than spec.
@@mrc7966 hello there! For me the best hot hatch I've ever driven is the Clio Williams so very jel that you have one. I've driven many a 172 but not cup or trophy. Weren't a patch on the Williams for me. Do you rate the 172 cup more than your Williams?
Didn't these have a titanium backbox standard?
No
The 182 here is actually faster than the latest version due to being 200kg lighter lol
You need to get your hands on a 206 gti 180 for a comparison now
Those peugeots are to ugly
Except from the 306
This or a Fiesta ST James?
I've had few ST's, but never driven the Trophy.
I'm not James but honestly in terms of handling these Clios (even 172/182 standard) are so far above. I've had an ST150, ST180, a 986 Boxster S and my Ph1 172 is the best handling/most fun car of them all.
@@ett_baer I've also had a Boxster S and found that car to have a very awkward driving position and little to no steering feel which is completely opposite to what reviews said, but I suppose handling is subjective. I personally think the ST180 is massively underrated and one of the best hatchbacks I've driven. I need to get myself in a Trophy, but good ones a going for silly money at the moment.
@@jimmyjt16 Handling is objective, it sound stupid but roundabout top speed is a really easy test, because power doesn't come into the equation on a roundabout. (One of the main tests of a reputable geo setup company (center gravity) is a roundabout test!)
I can't agree about the Boxster, something may have been off with the power steering in yours, I could feel every tiny little change in the road through my steering wheel, and the steering had very little assist, felt unpowered at a standstill. I found the ST180 the worst in terms of handling of the three of the above, but still a good chassis and good fun to drive.
Don't go for a trophy! They are silly money and not worth the price hike over the others. A 172 or 182 with *NEW* 172/182 cup dampers and cooksport springs will put you on par with a trophy handling wise, I've driven both. The phase 1 172 is 60(!!)kg lighter than the 182 trophy, with the springs and shocks I mentioned and some camber bolts you will essentially have a car that's better handling than the trophy.
I'm biased but I highly recommend the phase 1 over the later 172/182's if you can find one without rust, they come with way lighter (by almost 3kg a corner) alloys, and the cable throttle is a dream for response too.
Can u test a audi tt 8n 225hp
How old are those tyres?
They are in the second decade.
How funny, I hated my Renaultsport megane too! Amazed after all the hype. Worst car i've owned (275 Megane RS Trophy with the Ohlins and akrapovik). Would be interested in your thoughts as to why.
I hated my Meg 250 cup but adored the Clio Williams being imo 100x more fun to drive and a much more raw feeling..
Best Williams now more expensive than the best Trophy. Says it all really.
7:45 in and he still hasn't said "Proper hot hatch".... ah there it is.
I just finished build my track toy clio172 and so happy whit the car, not that good on fuel ahahahah